Inside plans for London’s highest swimming pool with 580ft panoramic views from famous building

The iconic BT tower could host a sky-high swimming pool and reopen to the public under fresh plans to turn the building into a luxury hotel.

The communications tower is set to be revamped after it was sold to MCR Hotels in 2024.

The American hotel chain is set to consult the public next week about its proposals for the Grade II-listed landmark.

The plans would see a swimming pool installed as high up as 580ft in the air for guests.

Bosses also want to open the top of the BT Tower to the public for the first time in almost half a century.

The structure’s 34th floor was a hub of fine dining and sightseeing trips until a bomb went off in one of the viewing galleries in 1971.

The blast damaged buildings and cars up to 400 yards away and forced the revolving restaurant and observation deck to close.

It was never clear who was behind the attack.

Anarchist group Angry Brigade claimed responsibility, but a call also came in from someone claiming to be from the Kilburn battalion of the IRA.

MCR Hotels has also included a new public square and walking routes through the site in its plans
The group wants new shops and restaurants to be installed as part of the revamp.

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Where is the BT Tower?

The main structure is 581 ft high, with a further section of
aerial rigging bringing the total height to 620 ft.

After it was built in 1964, it became the tallest structure in London until 1980, when it was surpassed by the NatWest Tower.

What is being done to the BT Tower?

The chain is planning on preserving the iconic building, which has become a much-loved part of London’s skyline.

BT said they did not want to ‘hang on to something they no longer need’, with many once-important features such as microwave aerials being removed more than a decade ago.

A project team will be hosting public consultation events throughout May at University College London, to the public the chance to see the proposals for the site.

A statement from the project team reads: ‘MCR intends to bring one of Britain’s most iconic buildings into public use through a hotel‑led, mixed‑use development that celebrates the BT Tower’s rich heritage, complements Fitzrovia’s historic character, and delivers meaningful placemaking and employment opportunities for the local community.’
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